By far, the topic that comes up most in our conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives is risk. We’ve had conversations about risks that worked out and risks that did not. We’ve seen eyes light eye sharing about career-trajectory changing risks as well as folks sigh about the risks they wish they had taken. Below, we’ve selected and shared some of those thoughtful conversations.

John Gimmler | Drummer/ Audio engineer/ Music producer

To me risks are essential to survival. To the survival of well-being and desired way of life. Without risks, you might be trapped in a routine leaving you depressed or unfulfilled. I’ve always been one to go after my goals. Read more>>

Tracy Green | Military Store Owner

I love taking risks because I have no fear. Taking Risks involve having confidence and not being afraid of failure. Risk Takers don’t believe in in failure. Risk takers never give up and keep striving for success no matter how many of life blows come at them. They take a licking and keep on ticking. Read more>>

Eric Sierra | Content Creator & Influencer

Throughout the years, I have always considered myself to be a risk-taker. In my mind, risk equals opportunity. I have been blessed enough to face countless opportunities where my life has changed its course due to the risks I’ve been willing to take. Like the iconic quote goes: “No risk, no reward.” Read more>>

Ellen Hockley | Founder & CEO of Evergreen Activewear

I think risk taking is relative, most people would say, starting a business from the ground up with no background in the industry is a huge risk, yet that’s never how I thought about it. I think that risk is often surrounded by a negative connotation but taking a leap of faith for something that you’re passionate about, whether or succeeds or fails should be praised. Read more>>

Eleanor Rodriguez | Athlete

Risk taking has always been a part of who I am, and I believe that taking calculated “smart” risks can lead to great rewards and growth. Throughout my life and career, I have embraced opportunities to take risks that align with my passions and have ultimately led to my personal and professional success. Read more>>

Shawnda Williams | Designer of Things

Risk is my oldest friend. The familiar companion has pushed, challenged, and broken me, yet forced me to rebuild bigger, stronger, more resilient, and exceed my wildest expectations. Society oft pressures people into prescribed paths and boxes, but I prefer to forge my own way. Read more>>

Dana Strickland | Therapist & EMDRIA Approved Consultant

“Risk” as a noun means “a situation involving exposure to danger” while “risk” as a verb means “to expose someone or something valued to danger, harm, or loss.” I think about risk, like most other things in life, as being subjective to the individual and as existing on a continuum. Read more>>

Marci Isaacs | Realtor

Taking risks have been a huge part of my career. My personality is one that easily steps out of the box and into something new or different, so I perceive taking risks as more of an adventure. It’s exciting to see it all unfold, and so far my risk taking has worked for my benefit. Read more>>

Dr. Mike Brademann | Chiropractor

Chiropractic is my second career. My first career actually involved risk management. I also felt a great responsibility to support my family financially and not take on any unnecessary risk. Basically, my focus for over 15 years centered around avoiding risk. Read more>>